How do you start an Alaskan Klee Kai rescue?

A:

Quick Answer

There are a number of steps involved to starting an Alaskan Klee Kai rescue, ranging from administrative and facility planning to community outreach. Make sure you know and understand the breed so responsible placements are made. Stick to the smaller, more manageable tasks in the beginning to avoid burnout later.

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Before you rescue your first Klee Kai, the first step is to name your organization and publish a mission statement. Develop a marketing plan, and begin building relationships with veterinarians, animal behaviorists and volunteers in your area. If you plan to operate as a nonprofit organization, you must secure tax-exempt status from the Internal Revenue Service and come up with a fundraising plan.

If you plan to foster the Alaskan Klee Kai yourself, you need to build a facility. Visiting existing shelters in your area gives you structural ideas to share with your building contractor. If you expect to place the Klee Kai in foster homes prior to adoption, it's important to develop and communicate a set of clear care standards. Foster families want a clear understanding of how expenses, such as food and medical bills, will be reimbursed.

Create a transfer of ownership agreement for animals coming into the rescue organization and adoption contracts for dogs going into new homes. Follow up with new owners to streamline and improve your process.